Hiking Lesotho

Lesotho is definitely a hiker's paradise. Lesotho has no organised hiking trails but on the other hand it doesn't need any since the entire country is a network of bridle and foot paths. The people in Lesotho walk as a means of getting from one point to another. You will also not find a single fence in the mountains; there is total freedom of access. What that means is that you can hike anywhere you like in Lesotho. And, since the whole country is mountainous, wherever you choose will have its own beauty.

If you are into some serious hiking, I do suggest that you have hiking experience and definitely good map reading abilities. Don't attempt any hike without the relevant 1:50 000 maps they are available from the map office in Maseru. Many of the Lodges listed will be able to provide maps of their own areas. Hiking in the mountains is safe in terms of human factors. But do take some precautions especially at night time, ensure that all your belongings (your valuables) are inside your tent. If you leave your backpack to climb a peak or some other side trip, hide it so that it is not so clearly noticeable to all who may pass by. If you are friendly and respectful to the shepherds that you meet deep in the mountains, they are far less likely to return in the middle of the night to rip you off.

How to be safe from the elements when hiking

Always remember that theweather in the mountains can change in an instant and very severely at any time of the year, so you should be equipped and prepared for any possibility. Make sure that someone knows which route you are going to take. Do carry the following with you: sound, worn-in walking shoes/boots, a warm sleeping bag (preferably sub-zero) and warm clothing, rain gear, a hat and sun cream (the sun in the mountains is vicious), sunglasses or eye drops (the wind too can be a problem), a camping stove and sufficient fuel as there is no firewood to be found, and sufficient food supplies (make sure that you have food for at least a day more than you expect your hike to last). In most of the Basotho valleys you can rent a hut for the night at about R10/night. But don't assume you should first locate the village chief and ask his permission. Camping is possible anywhere, and with a tent you can have a nights rest in some of the most beautiful spots!

Water above the level of human settlement from a stream is more often than not pure and safe to drink. However, it is worth carrying a water bottle for when your route takes you below this level for any length of time. If staying in or near a village, remember that most villages have a supply of drinking water, spring or a borehole. You can hike anywhere in Lesotho. When hiking always allow yourself more time if your fitness level is lower. For the less experienced, simpler overnight hikes can be done from Semongkong, Malealea or Sani Lodge - the owners will be happy to help you.

The Drakensberg Escarpment

It is possible to walk along the edge of the eastern escarpment all the way from Mont-aux-sources in the north to Sehlabathebe in the south. The area is very high, mostly over 3000m, with no villages and few shepherds. This is for the more experienced and self-reliant, with hikes of at least five days being recommended.

Ha Lejone to Oxbow

This is a 3-4 day hike.

Mokhotlong - Thahana Ntlenyana - Sani Top

This is a 3-4 day hike.

Sani Top to Seblabathebe

This is a 3 day hike.

Semongkong to Malealea

This is a three day hike.

Maletsunyane Gorge Hike

Brilliant day hikes to large areas of ALOE POLYPHYLLA - more commonly called SPIRAL ALOE

Sehonghong to Sehlabathebe

This is 2 - 3 day hike.